Learn about the kit you need and the knowledge that will help you prepare to scan your family history prints with Ann Larkham.
Photogenealogy is the art and science of caring for, identifying, enjoying, using, and sharing family history photographs, and then creating a treasured legacy with them. An important part of this rewarding process is scanning printed photos. This can be a lengthy task, but pre-scanning preparation will make the process more efficient. This preparation includes putting together a photogenealogy tool kit, triaging the prints, and removing prints from their enclosures if appropriate. Slides and negatives require different preparation, not covered in the scope of this article.
Tool Kit
A photogenealogist’s tool kit includes gloves, face mask, anti-static brush, bulb blower, micro spatula and dental floss. These tools are available from preservation equipment suppliers (see Links, page 57) or well-known online retailers. Basic DIY tools may also be useful, along with a camera for recording the arrangement of prints before preparing them for scanning.
Triage
A family history photo collection may include damaged, dusty, dirty or mouldy prints. Damaged prints can be repaired but this is best left to a professional conservator (see Links). Alternatively, they can be protected from further damage by supporting with a piece of ‘photo-safe’ card and placing in a ‘photo-safe’ sleeve.
The best method for removing dirt and dust from prints depends on the age and type of the print. First, check for flaking emulsion and if found treat these prints as damaged. For undamaged prints start with the gentlest cleaning method, a puff of air from a bulb blower. Don’t blow on them yourself because this will introduce moisture, and don’t use canned air, which is too powerful. If blowing doesn’t work, try an anti-static brush to gently brush away any debris. This is all the cleaning I recommend for older prints. Any additional cleaning should be carried out by a professional conservator. Modern prints can be safely cleaned with Photographic Emulsion Cleaner (PEC-12) and PEC Pads, which can be added to the tool kit if required.
Mould spores are an allergen and can trigger or worsen asthma and other respiratory ailments. Mouldy prints should be quarantined and dealt with separately (see Links). Triaging prints is also a good opportunity to remove things like staples, paper clips and elastic bands, and to look out for and remove any bugs that may be living in
